Maritimes- Cape Breton Celtic Colours
Cabot Trail, Cape Breton
October 12-17, 2025
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
This morning you will depart from Ottawa on a direct flight to Halifax. Once in Halifax your Travac Tours Director will meet you and get you onboard our private motor coach. You will make a lunch stop, then make the drive to Baddeck, the start and end point of the famous Cabot Trail, it is a favourite spot for travellers.
Welcome Dinner is included tonight.
Hotel Stay for the next 4 nights – Inverary Resort
Day 2
After breakfast, we’ll depart for a tour of the island. Today’s highlights include a visit to Heritage Park, where we’ll explore the living history of the people of Membertou, and the Cape Breton Miners Museum, where retired miners tell their stories and experiences. Tonight, we kick off our Celtic Colours experience. Transportation to and from the show is included. Most performances begin at 7:30 PM and last about 2 hours.
Day 3
After breakfast, we continue our exploration of Cape Breton with a scenic, private guided tour. This morning, we will journey to Chéticamp, a charming Acadian fishing village. You’ll have free time to enjoy lunch on your own ($) before we continue along the Cabot Trail towards Ingnoish, renowned for it’s connection to Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Tonight we’ll experience another great evening of music at a Celtic Colours performance.
Day 4
After breakfast, we’ll begin the day with a visit to the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site. Here, you’ll discover full-scale replicas, exhibits, and artifacts that showcase Bell’s groundbreaking inventions and wide-ranging interest. After, we will make the journey to the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site, the largest reconstructed 18th century fortified town in North America. This evening, we’ll attend our final Celtic Colours performance.
Day 5
After a leisurely breakfast we will depart from Cape Breton, making our way back to Halifax. Stopping to visit Glenora Distillery. We should arrive into Halifax approximately 3pm so you can enjoy the afternoon walking along the Halifax waterfront, or take in a local museum, or just relax at the hotel. Your afternoon and evening are free – your Travac Tours Director will have an optional tour and optional farewell dinner tonight ($).
Overnight: Halifax Marriott Harbourfront
Day 6
After enjoying your included breakfast, you will have until check out time to enjoy downtown Halifax. Again, your Travac Tours Director will have an optional event ($). Your flight departs early afternoon back to Ottawa. Expect to arrive in Ottawa in late afternoon.
**Itinerary and flights subject to change**
Hotel Information
Inverary Resort
Hotel Address
368 Shore Rd.Baddeck, NS
1-800-565-5660
Halifax Marriott Harbourfront
Hotel Address
1919 Upper Water StHalifax, NS
1-(902)-421-1700
Ontario- Pelee Island, Windsor, and Niagara Getaway
June 14-18, 2026
A passage to Pelee Island and Windsor, combined with a stop in Niagara Falls, is an excellent getaway. The climate of the Lake Erie Islands Archipelago boasts the highest heat units in the country and the longest frost-free season in Ontario. This helps make the flora and fauna of Pelee Island rather unique.
There are many facets to Travac’s marvellous getaway. You’ll enjoy a Rum Runners tour that lets you understand the nefarious lifestyle of Windsor during the 1920’s. During your adventure, you’ll experience Pelee Island through the eyes of a local professional guide, visit a local winery with a tasting. You’ll also stop at Willistead Manor House, once the residence of Edward Walker, the second son of Hiram Walker, one of the principal icons of the spirits industry during its formative years.
Your holiday includes roundtrip transportation on a deluxe chartered coach, 4 nights’ accommodation, 2 lunches, a full sightseeing program, and the services of a Travac Tours Director. Early booking is your best guarantee of obtaining space on this fabulous getaway.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Ottawa to Leamington
Early this morning, you will depart Carlingwood Mall for Leamington by private motor coach. Upon arrival, you will check into your hotel. The remainder of the evening is free to explore your surroundings.
Overnight – Quality Inn Leamington (or similar)
Day 2
Pelee Island Adventure
After your breakfast at the hotel, we will make our way to Pelee Island by ferry. As your journey begins to Pelee Island, the ferry slowly leaves the mainland and drifts into the horizon on the warm waters of Lake Erie. During this 90-minute crossing, take this time to relax and chat with your travelling companions on the ferry’s open air upper deck.
Pelee Island’s magical charm has been coined the Canadian Caribbean. With summer temperatures that mimic the famed Bordeaux region of France, Pelee Island is a winemaker’s paradise, though you needn’t love wine to love your time on the island. Sand beaches dot the shoreline, and trails criss-cross the island, while rare species of birds soar over it all.
Our local guide will meet us on arrival at Pelee Island Winery. We will have time to see the island and then enjoy both a tasting and a tour of the facility. Lunch is also included at the facility. Your day visit will be spent exploring the island under the guidance of a local tour professional. Once we have arrived back on the mainland, we will make our way to Windsor. Your evening will be free. (B, L)
Overnight – Holiday Inn Express Windsor Waterfront (or similar)
Day 3
The Rum Runners Tour
This morning after your included breakfast you will be met by “The Rum Runners Tour” acting troupe. The group will take you on a journey through prohibition of the 1920s and 30s in Windsor. This tour includes visits to MacKenzie Hall and Bedford United Church, after your lunch and Rum Runner’s show you’ll be off to Willistead Manor House for a visit. Your evening will again be free. (B, L)
Overnight – Holiday Inn Express Windsor Waterfront (or similar)
Day 4
Niagara Falls
This morning after breakfast, you will depart Windsor for your drive to Niagara Falls. Upon arrival, you will have a free day in Niagara to do some exploring and shopping. Your Travac Tour Director will have some optional tours to offer ($). (B)
Overnight – Niagara Falls at the Hilton Fallsview (or similar)
Day 5
Niagara Falls to Ottawa
On this day, after a free morning in Niagara you will begin your journey back to Ottawa. You can expect to arrive back at Carlingwood Mall in the evening. (B)
Itinerary and hotels subject to change.
Hotel Information
Quality Inn Leamington (or similar)
Hotel Address
279 Erie St SLeamington , ON
N8H 3C4
(519) 326-9071
Holiday Inn Express Windsor Waterfront (or similar)
Hotel Address
33 Riverside Dr EWindsor, ON
N9A 2S4
(519) 258-7774
Niagara Falls at the Hilton Fallsview (or similar)
Hotel Address
6361 Fallsview BlvdNiagara Falls, ON
L2G 3V9
(905) 354-7887
Ontario- Niagara Falls
July 20-23, 2026
August 17-20, 2026
Join Travac for an exciting 4 day, 3 night adventure to beautiful Niagara Falls, Ontario! Your time will be your own to discover the many attractions of Niagara Falls, from its boat tours to botanical gardens. Your Travac Tours Director will be present to offer ample suggestions on what to see and do throughout your stay. Your package includes round-trip transportation by deluxe private motor coach from Ottawa, a guided city tour of Niagara Falls, 3 nights’ accommodation at the Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview Hotel, and the services of a Travac Tours Director. A perfect summer escape- call the office at 613-728-1934 for more information or to book!
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Ottawa to Niagara Falls
This morning you depart the Carlingwood Shopping Centre for Niagara Falls. A washroom and lunch stop will be made en route. You will arrive in Niagara Falls in the early evening, ready to explore at your leisure. Your Travac Tours Director will have restaurant suggestions for dinner.
Day 2
Niagara Falls
Your morning will begin with a guided city tour. You will have the rest of the day to spend at your leisure exploring Niagara Falls and Niagara-on-the-Lake at your own pace. Your Travac Tours Director will have suggestions on activities for the afternoon.
Day 3
Niagara Falls
Enjoy another day of leisure. Your Travac Tours Director offers suggestions between Niagara Falls and Niagara-on-the-Lake for the day.
Optional Shaw Festival Package ($): Private backstage tour and performance – details and price to follow.
Day 4
Niagara Falls to Ottawa
After checking out of the hotel, we will depart for Ottawa. Scheduled stops for washrooms breaks and lunch will be made along the way. Expect to arrive back at the Carlingwood Shopping Centre in the early evening.
Itinerary and hotel are subject to change.
Hotel Information
Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview Hotel
Hotel Address
6361 Fallsview BlvdNiagara Falls, Ontario
L2G 3V9
(905) 354-7887
Ontario- Shaw Festival: September Departures
September 8-11, 2026
September 29 – October 2, 2026
For our June trip, please click here.
Travac Tours is pleased to announce that it will be offering another exceptional program this year at the Shaw Festival.
The first play we will attend is Amadeus. Antonio Salieri is a pious, conscientious man—and the greatest composer in the Austrian Empire. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart is a young, foolish show-off—and apparently no threat. Except that Salieri can hear what no one else can: this ridiculous boy is perhaps the greatest musical genius ever to have lived. How can God have played such a trick on Salieri? To reward his devotion by rubbing his nose in his own mediocrity? There is only one possible revenge: God’s beloved, Amadeus, must be destroyed. This story of genius and the price it extracts is one of the greatest and most ravishing experiences in theatrical history.
Our second performance is Funny Girl. Fanny Brice has everything it takes to be Broadway’s next big thing: the voice, the charm and more than a little chutzpah. But does she have “the look?” This touching comedy explores her unlikely rise to stardom with the Ziegfeld Follies as well as her turbulent love life with gambler Nick Arnstein. One of the greatest musical scores of all time, Funny Girlincludes classics like “Don’t Rain on My Parade”, “I’m the Greatest Star”, “People” and much more.
Travac’s Shaw Festival Holiday is affordably priced and includes round trip transportation by deluxe chartered coach, 3 nights’ accommodation, 3 breakfasts, orchestra seating for both plays and the services of a Travac Tours Director. Book early to avoid disappointment!
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Ottawa to Niagara Falls
This morning you depart Carlingwood Shopping Centre for Niagara Falls. Scheduled washroom and lunch stop will be made enroute. Expect to arrive in Niagara Falls in early evening.
Hotel for the next 3 nights: Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview (or similar)
Day 2
Niagara Falls
Enjoy breakfast before we head to the Shaw Festival Theatre for a private backstage tour. Your Travac Tours Director will advise of the shuttle times between Niagara Falls and Niagara-on-the-Lake for the day. Your Shaw Festival performance of Amadeus is in the evening.
A listening device is offered at no additional cost; please request should you require one.
(B)
Day 3
Niagara Falls
After breakfast, your Travac Tours Director will advise of the shuttle times between Niagara Falls and Niagara-on-the-Lake for the day. Your Shaw Festival performance of Funny Girl is in the afternoon (September 10 group) or in the evening (October 1 group).
A listening device is offered at no additional cost; please request should you require one.
(B)
Day 4
Niagara Falls to Ottawa
Following breakfast, we’ll check out of the hotel and begin our journey back to Ottawa, with scheduled washroom and lunch stops en route.
(B)
**Itinerary and hotel are subject to change**
Hotel Information
Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview Hotel
Hotel Address
6361 Fallsview BlvdNiagara Falls, Ontario
L2G 3V9
(905) 354-7887
Ontario- Shaw Festival: June Departure
June 23-25, 2026
For our September Shaw departures, please click here.
Travac Tours is pleased to announce that it will be offering another exceptional program this year at the Shaw Festival.
We will attend the play Funny Girl. Fanny Brice has everything it takes to be Broadway’s next big thing: the voice, the charm and more than a little chutzpah. But does she have “the look?” This touching comedy explores her unlikely rise to stardom with the Ziegfeld Follies as well as her turbulent love life with gambler Nick Arnstein. One of the greatest musical scores of all time, Funny Girlincludes classics like “Don’t Rain on My Parade”, “I’m the Greatest Star”, “People” and much more.
An optional second performance ($) you can attend is a matinee of One for the Pot. Billy Hickory Wood is set to inherit a proper pot of cash. A wealthy businessman has decided to give £10,000 to the family of his former partner, and Billy is the sole living relation. Right? Wrong. Cue the arrival of several, hitherto unknown and identical, Hickory Wood siblings (all played by the same actor) looking to claim what they’re owed. To say that chaos ensues would be an understatement. The team that brought you One Man, Two Guvnors (2024) is reunited for this legendary farce.
Travac’s Shaw Festival Holiday is affordably priced and includes round trip transportation by deluxe chartered coach, 2 nights’ accommodation, 2 breakfasts, orchestra seating for Funny Girl and the services of a Travac Tours Director. Book early to avoid disappointment!
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Ottawa to Niagara Falls
This morning you depart Carlingwood Shopping Centre for Niagara Falls. Scheduled washroom and lunch stop will be made enroute. Expect to arrive in Niagara Falls in early evening.
Hotel for the next 2 nights: Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview (or similar
Day 2
Niagara Falls
After breakfast, your Travac Tours Director will advise of the shuttle times between Niagara Falls and Niagara-on-the-Lake for the day. Your Shaw Festival performance of Funny Girl is in the evening.
A listening device is offered at no additional cost; please request should you require one.
Optional ($): Shaw Festival 1:00pm – Performance of “One for the Pot”.
7:00pm – Performance of Funny Girl.
(B)
Day 3
Niagara Falls to Ottawa
Following breakfast, we’ll check out of the hotel and enjoy a private backstage tour at the Shaw Festival Theatre. Afterward, we begin our journey back to Ottawa, with scheduled washroom and lunch stops en route.
(B)
Itinerary and hotel are subject to change.
Hotel Information
Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview Hotel
Hotel Address
6361 Fallsview BlvdNiagara Falls, Ontario
L2G 3V9
(905) 354-7887
Newfoundland
Grand Tour of Newfoundland
June 16-26, 2026
July 17-27, 2026
August 15-25, 2026
September 11-21, 2026
Travac would like to take you to the most easterly edge of North America……Newfoundland!
This summer join Travac as we travel to the province where the Vikings first landed over 1000 years ago leaving their indelible mark. You’ll have a chance to visit the oldest settlement and the oldest city in North America. At the same time you will traverse this vast land with its relatively small population and meet some of its friendly inhabitants. Here you can immerse yourself in the solitude of the provinces wilderness one day and embrace its vibrant culture the next.
Your tour covers over 3300 kilometers of beautiful scenery and will take you from Newfoundland’s vibrant towns to its quaint villages and outports. You will follow stunning coastlines and take in some of the most incredible sky-scapes that you will ever see. You will visit Gros Morne National Park, UNESCO National Historic Site L’Anse aux Meadows, Trinity and Bonavista as well as many quaint and picturesque villages as you head into St. John’s.
Your first step to secure your space on this exciting adventure is to simply call Travac Tours and have one of our helpful agents reserve your spot.
When should I go?
Looking to see icebergs? June is your best bet.
July is the best month for whale and puffin sightings!
August and September offer great weather and many festivals.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Today you will depart Ottawa Airport for your flights to Deer Lake. Upon your arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel near Gros Morne National Park. This world heritage site takes its name from Newfoundland’s second-highest mountain peak.
Overnight in Rocky Harbour – Ocean View Hotel or similar (B)
Day 2
After breakfast we will depart for Gros Morne Park. The Park is famous for its spectacular scenery. Apart from enjoying this incredible landscape by land, you will also venture off on a boat tour within the park on Bonne Bay (weather permitting). This will allow you an entirely different perspective on the millennia-old striking landscapes. It will also allow you to enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
Overnight in Rocky Harbour – Ocean View Hotel or similar (B, L)
Day 3
Moving north we will visit the Port au Choix National Historic Site. Here you’ll find the crossroads of 6000 years of human history. The sea’s bounty drew Maritime Archaic Indian, Dorset and Groswater Paleoeskimo, and Recent Indian’s here long before Europeans arrived. Seals on passing ice flows were hunted by the Dorset and used for food, shelter and clothing.
Overnight in St. Anthony’s – Grenfell Heritage Hotel (or similar) (B, L)
Day 4
This morning you will make your way to the UNESCO National Historic Site, L’Anse aux Meadows. It was here in 1960 that a group of archeologists discovered the remains of what was an ancient Norse encampment that would have housed as many as 100 Vikings. While here, you will have a chance to view some of the recovered artifacts. Your guide will also go over how the encampment was discovered. Near the original encampment are several re-created sod and timber buildings depicting how life was lived 1,000 years ago.
In the afternoon, we will take a guided tour of Sir Wilfred Grenfell Mission. The Grenfell Mission provided some of the earliest permanent medical services in Labrador and northern Newfoundland. Before the mission opened its first hospital at Battle Harbour in 1893, almost no healthcare resources existed in the area.
Overnight in St. Anthony’s – Grenfell Heritage Hotel (or similar) (B, D)
Day 5
This morning, we will leave the northern peninsula. There will still be many opportunities to enjoy its natural beauty, and your driver will make stops along our route to allow time for picture-taking.
Overnight in Cow Head (June, July, and September) – Shallow Bay Motel or similar (B)
Overnight in Rocky Harbour (August) – Mountain Range Cottages or similar (B)
Day 6
After breakfast, we will make our way to Gander. Gander is most famous for the role that it has played in Canadian aviation history. This role extends back the 1930’s and was most prominent in World War II when over 10,000 airmen were stationed in Gander. Most of the streets in Gander are named after famous aviators, such as Amelia Earhart, Alcock and Brown, Charles Lindbergh, Eddie Rickenbacker, Marc Garneau and Chuck Yeager.
Overnight in Gander – Sinbad’s Hotel or similar (B)
Day 7
Today you will make your way to visit Twillingate, one of the most picturesque outports in all of Newfoundland. Located on the northeastern shore of Newfoundland, Twillingate is affectionately known as the ‘Iceberg Capital of the World’. Twillingate was once an active fishing community and is one of the oldest ports on the island.
Overnight in Clarenville – Clarenville Inn or similar (B, L)
Day 8
Your journey today will take you to Bonavista and Trinity. In Bonavista you will have the chance to view the cliffs and enjoy the wonderful coastal scenery. It was here that John Cabot made landfall in 1497. This is also a major center for the fishing industry in Newfoundland. From Bonavista you will continue on to Trinity. Trinity is one of the oldest communities in North America and is a gem of a village.
Overnight in Clarenville – Clarenville Inn or similar (B, L)
Day 9
Today will take you into St. John’s, the capital of Newfoundland. A stop at Cape Spear with a tour will be made on route.
After time for lunch (on your own) in St. John’s, we will embark on a 3-hour city tour. The city enjoys a long and vibrant history as the oldest English-founded city in North America. While the city owes a great deal to the fishing industry, it has been transformed into a modern city famed for its nightlife and its rich musical culture.
Evening is free.
Overnight St. John’s – Hilton Garden Inn or similar (B)
Day 10
This morning you will travel down the Avalon Peninsula to the town of Bay Bulls. From here you will make your way to Witless Bay where you will embark on a boat tour and have a chance to view thousands of Atlantic Puffins, Murres and other seabirds that make their home here in the summer (weather permitting).
Tonight, there will be a farewell dinner.
Overnight St. John’s – Hilton Garden Inn or similar (B, D)
Day 11
Your Travac Tours Director will advise you of your transfer time to the airport for your return flights back to Ottawa from St. John’s. We are sure that you will have many fond memories of your wonderful Newfoundland experience. (B)
Airline schedules, itinerary, and attractions are subject to change.
Hotel Information
Ocean View Hotel
Hotel Address
Gros Morne National Park, 38-42 Main St SRocky Harbour, NL
A0K 4N0
(709) 200-1650
Grenfell Heritage Hotel & Suites
Hotel Address
1 MacChada DrSt. Anthony, NL
A0K 4S0
+1 888-450-8398
Mountain Range Cottages
Hotel Address
32 Parsons LnRocky Harbour, NL
A0K 4N0
(709) 458-2199
Sinbad’s Hotel or similar
Hotel Address
133 Bennett DrGander, NL
A1V 1X3
Clarenville Inn or similar
Hotel Address
134 Trans Canada Hwy, Clarenville, NL A5A 1Y3Clarenville, NL
A5A 1Y3
(709) 466-7911
Hilton Garden Inn
Hotel Address
150 New Gower StSt John's, NL
A1C 0C1
Quebec City & Whale Watching
August 16-20, 2026
A late summer trip along the majestic St. Lawrence River is an experience that leaves a lasting impression on visitors. Sweeping hills give way to historic trading post towns, lively Francophone cities and ultimately the cool blues of the river itself.
Join us as we depart for the picturesque village of Tadoussac, at the maritime junction of the St. Lawrence River and the Saguenay Fjord. From here you will depart on a breathtaking whale watching cruise on which you are bound to see an abundance of marine life. Then it will be off to Quebec City. While in Quebec City you will have enough time to explore many of the wonders of this magnificent city including its quaint shops and cafes.
This tour is sure to sell out fast- call the office at 613-728-1934 or visit us at the Carlingwood Shopping Centre today!
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Ottawa to Tadoussac
This morning you will depart Carlingwood Shopping Centre on your journey to the Quebec heartland. A lunch stop will be made enroute. Expect to arrive at Hotel Tadoussac in the late afternoon. Your evening will be free to enjoy the facilities at the hotel. (D)
Overnight at Hotel Tadoussac or similar
Note: Hotel Tadoussac does not have air conditioning, only fans. The pool will be closed by end of August 2026.
Day 2
Whale Watching Cruise
This morning you will make your way to the pier for your 2.5-hour whale watching experience. A qualified guide will give you information about points of interest as well as information about the whales or belugas that you might encounter. After the cruise, you will return to your hotel. The remainder of your day is at your leisure. (B)
Overnight at Hotel Tadoussac or similar
Day 3
Tadoussac to Quebec City, QC
You will have an early departure for Quebec City. Upon arrival, you will have time to enjoy lunch in the city before in taking a guided tour of this magnificent city that is truly “a touch of Europe in your own back yard”. You will have ample time to explore the city on your own. (B)
Overnight at Hotel Clarendon or similar
Day 4
Quebec City
Today, you have a free day to shop, dine, and explore the city and its surroundings. (B)
Overnight at Hotel Clarendon or similar
Day 5
Quebec City to Ottawa
Your morning will be free in Old Quebec. Your Travac Tour Director will advise you of your departure time from the hotel. Expect to arrive back in Ottawa in the early evening. (B)
Itinerary and hotels subject to change.
Hotel Information
Hotel Clarendon
Hotel Address
57 Rue Sainte-AnneQuébec, QC
G1R 3X4
(418) 692-2480
Hôtel Tadoussac
Hotel Address
165 Rue du Bord de l'EauTadoussac, Quebec
G0T 2A0
(418) 235-4421
British Columbia- The Great Canadian Train Experience: VIA The Great Western Way (East to West)
October 10-17, 2026
Travac wants you to see Canada the way it was meant to be seen: travelling onboard VIA’s unforgettable cross-country rail journey!
Your epic adventure begins boarding VIA’s Corridor train from Ottawa to Toronto. You will overnight at the historic luxury Fairmont Royal York Hotel before embarking on VIA’s The Canadian the following day to begin your journey west. Aboard the train, you will pass through Ontario’s lake country, Sioux Lookout, Winnipeg, the sweeping Prairies, Jasper, and the stunning Rocky Mountains before travelling from Kamloops to Vancouver. Your trip concludes with time in Vancouver, where you will have a city tour and free time to explore at your leisure.
This unforgettable vacation allows you to take in the wonderful diversity of our great nation on one of the world’s most celebrated rail experiences. Canada awaits you!
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Today you will meet your Travac Tours Director at the Ottawa VIA Rail Station on Tremblay Rd. You will board train #53 departing Ottawa at 11:45 and arriving in Toronto at 16:33. It is a 3-minute walk from Union Station to the Fairmont Royal York which is your accommodation for the night. Located in the core of downtown Toronto your restaurant and shopping possibilities are extensive. The remainder of your afternoon is free time. Reminder that check-in is 4:00pm.
As per Canada Transport the entire group must travel from Ottawa to Toronto. No alternate pick-up station is permitted.
Day 2-3
This morning you will depart the hotel and walk over to Union Station to board the Canadian. NOTE: You are only permitted to have a carry-on size bag to take to your cabin. Your larger checked bag must be checked in with VIA, and it will be stored away. YOU CANNOT ACCESS YOUR CHECKED BAG WHILE ON THE TRAIN.
Today your wonderful train adventure begins aboard VIA’s The Canadian. You will be completely immersed in the single most contributing factor to what connected Canada from east to west.
Get comfortable in your “Manor Sleeping Car”. The cabins for one (with a concealed toilet) or two (with an ensuite toilet) both have vanities, and the chairs configure to make up your beds for the next four nights. The beds are made up while at dinner and put back away while at breakfast. The cabins for 2 have one upper and one lower bunk. The single cabin has one lower bed. A public shower, and 2 washrooms per car, are at your disposal. Your meals and access to the Dome Observation Car are included. Breakfast is first come, first served while lunch and dinner are set times. Times can only be reserved on the train the day before for the following day.
All 3 meals have 4 choices (one of which is vegan).
It is important to note that the train stops about every seven hours for operational reasons. The length of the stop can vary from ten minutes to two hours.
We will depart Toronto at 09:45 and you will travel to Winnipeg. Enjoy all the lakes and the spectacular scenery of the Canadian Shield in Northern Ontario. Expect to arrive October 12 at 19:30. You can put your watch back 1 hour to CDT in Allanwater Bridge, ON.
There is a complete staff change in Winnipeg which can affect your mealtimes.
Cabin for one
Cabin for two
Day 4
You will travel from Winnipeg to Saskatoon through the night. Expect to arrive in Saskatoon at 10:50. There will be a 1 hour stop in Saskatoon where you can set your watch back 1 hour to MDT then onward to Edmonton. Sit back and enjoy the spectacular scenery and perhaps enjoy time with new friends. The train will follow a beautiful stretch on the Manitoba and Saskatchewan border of the Assiniboine River. Expect to arrive in Edmonton at 20:50. You will travel overnight from Edmonton to Jasper.
Day 5
Wake up and enjoy your wonderful breakfast in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Expect to arrive in Jasper at 0630 and then depart at 0930. You will enjoy full daylight for this breathtaking segment from Jasper to Kamloops. Jasper to Kamloops is likely the most stunning scenery. Enjoy the Dome Car, the Dining Car, and the Park Car to take in all the scenery. You can set your watch back 1 hour MDT in Jasper.
Expect to arrive in Kamloops at 18:30 and depart at 19:03.
Day 6
We will travel from Kamloops through the night onto our destination of The Canadian to Vancouver. You can set your watch back 1 hour PDT in Vancouver. Expect to arrive at 08:00 am. Upon arrival you will be transferred to your Vancouver hotel, The Pinnacle Hotel Harbourfront. The hotel is within walking distance of Vancouver Harbour and Canada Place, and offers wonderful views of Stanley Park, putting you in a great location. After arriving at your hotel, the rest of the day is free to enjoy the surrounding area. Your Travac Tours Director will have ideas of things to do. Reminder that check-in time is 3:00pm.
Day 7
This morning at 9:00am you will depart the hotel on a private coach for a 4-hour guided Vancouver city tour. Upon your return, the afternoon is at your leisure. Your Travac Tours Director may recommend nearby activities for this day. This beautiful city has so much to offer.
Day 8
Today you will meet your Travac Tours Director in the lobby of the hotel to get your transfer to the Vancouver International Airport and board your flight to Ottawa. Your Tour Director will update you on the time.
We hope you’ve had a memorable trip!
* Schedules and itinerary are subject to change*
*CN Freight has priority over Via Rail and can delay our arrival times*
Hotel Information
Fairmont Royal York
Hotel Address
100 Front St WToronto, ON
M5J 1E3
416-368-2511
Pinnacle Hotel Harbourfront
Hotel Address
1133 W Hastings StVancouver, BC
V6E 3T3
604-689-9211
Maritimes- Iles de la Madeleine & Prince Edward Island – Spring Departure
May 26 – June 3, 2026
For our fall departure, please click here.
Located in the middle of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, a green archipelago surrounded by white sandy beaches and dramatic red cliffs wields a magnetic attraction to everyone that steps on its shores. Iles De La Madeleine are the Maritimes best kept secret and an incomparable escape! Renowned for their warm hospitality and welcoming Acadian culture, the islanders here have created a perfect getaway with exquisite seafood and fabulous attractions including wonderful museums, galleries, and shops.
Join us on May 26 as we journey to Iles De La Madeleine for a fabulous 9 day, 8 night holiday that includes a visit to PEI.
While on PEI, you will visit Summerside, Charlottetown, Cavendish, as well as landscapes filled with rolling hills and green forests. You also have a chance to stroll along the island’s beckoning sandy beaches with their dunes and red sandstone cliffs. Imagine walking in the footsteps of Lucy Maud Montgomery, creator of Anne of Green Gables, as you explore the island’s incomparable charms. During your tour of this island you will be enchanted by the yarns of our local host as he guides you through some of the most beautiful and colourful villages in Canada.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Ottawa to Edmundston
This morning you will depart Ottawa and travel east along the south shore of the St Lawrence River to Edmundston, New Brunswick. Expect to arrive in Edmundston in the late afternoon.
Hotel: Edmundston Four Points by Sheraton or similar.
Day 2
Edmundston to Summerside
This morning we will depart Edmundston to continue our journey along the Trans-Canada highway, making our way through New Brunswick to the Northumberland Straight, where you will cross Confederation Bridge. Upon arrival in PEI, we will stop for a photo stop near the bridge before continuing onto Summerside. Your Travac Tours Director will offer an optional orientation walk of the area- the remainder of your evening is free to enjoy. (B)
Hotel: Loyalist Country Inn or similar.
Day 3
Summerside to Iles de la Madeleine
After a leisurely breakfast this morning, we will drive along the north coast of the island to the town of Souris where we will board the ferry our 5-hour crossing to Iles de la Madeleine. Meals will be available to purchase onboard the ferry. Upon arrival at on Iles de la Madeleine, your Travac Tours Director will assist in helping you check into your hotel. The remainder of your evening is free to relax and/or enjoy the beach. (B)
Hotel for the next three nights: Chateau Madelinot or similar.
Day 4
Iles de la Madeleine: Cap-aux-Meules, L’Etang-du-Nord, La Cote, Havre-Aubert
Îles de la Madeleine is an isolated archipelago made up of seven inhabited islands in the middle of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Today we tour the beautiful western part of the archipelago: in the morning, we will visit the villages of Cap-aux-Meules, L’Etang-du-Nord and La Cote. In the afternoon we have the opportunity to explore the island of Havre-Aubert. Dinner is included tonight. (B, D).
Day 5
Iles de la Madeleine: Havre-aux Maisons, Pointe-Basse Harbour, Dune-du-Sud, Grosse-Isle, Grand-Entrée
After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, we will make our way to the lovely eastern islands of the archipelago. In the morning, we’ll explore the village of Havre-aux Maisons and make a stop at the Pointe-Basse Harbour to visit the Smokehouse Economuseum. We will then make our way to the Echourie Lighthouse before stopping at Dune-du-Sud for a walk on the beach and to look at the brilliant cliffs carved by the sea. In the afternoon we will visit the charming villages of Grosse-Isle and Grand-Entrée. Dinner is included tonight. (B, D).
Day 6
Iles de la Madeleine to Charlottetown
This morning, you will be served a boxed breakfast to take with you on the ferry back to PEI. After our ferry crossing, we will make our way to Charlottetown. Upon arrival at the hotel, your Travac Tours Director will take you for an optional orientation walk of the area. The remainder of your afternoon/evening is free to spend at leisure (B).
Hotel for the next two nights: Rodd Charlottetown or similar.
Day 7
Charlottetown
After breakfast this morning, we will meet our local guide for our full-day tour of Prince Edward Island. Your tour will start with an exploration of historic and modern-day Charlottetown before heading into Cavendish, one of the loveliest towns on the island. Affectionately known as “Anne’s Land”, Cavendish is especially revered for its beautiful red sandy beaches, PEI National Park, and of course for inspiring LM Montgomery’s much-beloved Anne of Green Gables novels. We will visit Green Gables Heritage Place, where you can explore the Green Gables estate and its walking trails and learn more about why Anne of Green Gables attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors from around the world to the island each year. We will then continue our tour to the beautiful seaside town North Rustico, visit PEI National Park, and make a stop at the PEI Preserve Company. Your evening will be free to explore the warm island hospitality of Charlottetown. (B, L).
Day 8
Charlottetown to Edmundston
After a hearty breakfast this morning, you will begin your homeward journey. We will travel today from Charlottetown to Edmundston- after checking into our hotel, the remainder of your evening is free. (B)
Hotel: Edmundston Four Points by Sheraton or similar.
Day 9
Edmundston to Ottawa
Today we will travel from Edmundston to Ottawa. Expect to arrive back at the Carlingwood Mall in the early evening (B).
Itinerary and hotels are subject to change.
Hotel Information
Edmundston Four Points by Sheraton or similar
Hotel Address
100 Rue RiceEdmundston, New Brunswick
E3V 1T4
(506) 739-7321
Loyalist Country Inn or similar
Hotel Address
195 Heather Moyse DrSummerside, PEI
C1N 5R1
(902) 436-3333
Chateau Madelinot or similar
Hotel Address
323 QC-199Fatima (Iles de la Madeleine), QC
G4T 2H6
(418) 986-2211
Rodd Charlottetown or similar
Hotel Address
75 Kent StCharlottetown, PEI
C1A 7K4
+1 902 892 7448
Quebec- On the Trail of Louise Penny
Abbaye de Saint-Benoit du Lac
Exploring the Epic Sites That Created the Backdrop to
Louise Penny’s Captivating Novels
September 9-11, 2026
September 23-25, 2026
October 7-9, 2026
October 14-16, 2026
October 21-23, 2026
Award-winning Canadian author Louise Penny has captivated the world with her compelling mystery novels set primarily in the Eastern Townships of Quebec. Her wildly popular books from the Three Pines series have consistently topped the New York Times bestseller lists and have been translated into 29 languages, selling more than 10 million copies worldwide. Her recent collaboration co-authoring State of Terror with Hillary Rodham Clinton has cemented her as one of the mystery genre’s all-time greats, and this spring Travac wants to take you to the centre of her universe as we visit the idyllic real-life locations that inspire the settings to her novels.
Travac’s special three-day excursion will take you into the heart of the Eastern Townships and to the locations that have been immortalized by Penny and her brilliantly fashioned characters. We will visit the Victorian village of Knowlton- the direct inspiration for Penny’s fictional village of Three Pines- with stops at Brome Lake Books and the Brome County Historical Society Museum where Jane’s painting from Still Life is on display. Your tour will continue with visits to many sites that are cherished parts of the fabric woven in Louise Penny’s novels, including (among others) Abbaye de Saint-Benoît-du-Lac (the inspiration for Saint-Gilbert-Entre-les-Loups Abbey in A Beautiful Mystery), old Hadley House, and of course, Sarah’s Boulangerie. We will also make stops at Elderberry Farm, and Sherbrooke’s famous murals.
Travac’s fabulous Louise Penny adventure will be very popular- early booking is essential. Join us as we uncover the important settings that make Penny’s novels so endearing and the secrets behind them!
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
This morning, we depart Ottawa and travel toward Quebec’s picturesque Eastern Townships. Our first stop is Vitality Elderberry Farm in Lac-Brome, where we will enjoy a tasting of their locally grown elderberry products.
We then continue to Knowlton, a charming village known for its pastoral beauty and for inspiring Louise Penny’s fictional town of Three Pines. While in Knowlton, we will visit Brome Lake Books, followed by a short walk to the Brome County Historical Society Museum. After your included lunch, we travel to an award-winning winery just outside of Magog, renowned for its exceptional sparkling wines. (L)
Day 2
We will begin our day in Sherbrooke with a guided tour of the town and its famous murals. After your included lunch, we will visit La Station Fromagerie, winner of several regional, provincial, and national awards for their cheese made from organic raw cow milk. Our last stop is Georgeville, where you can visit the General Store, the inspiration for Mr. Belliveau’s General Store, and St George’s Church, inspiration for St Thomas Church. You will also see the old Mansion House, the basis of “Hadley House” which figures prominently in Penny’s novel A Fatal Grace. (B, L)
Day 3
Our final day begins with a journey to Sutton. On our way, we will stop at Abbaye de Saint-Benoît-du-Lac. This abbey was the inspiration for Saint-Gilbert-Entre-les-Loups Abbey in A Beautiful Mystery. The Benedictine monks of the Saint-Benoit-du-Lac abbey are famous for and have been making cheeses since 1943. Leaving the abbey, we will continue to Sutton where lunch will be included. Before we bid farewell to the world of Three Pines, you will also have a chance to visit the delicatessen (La Rumeur Affamée) on which Sarah’s Boulangerie was based. (B)
We hope you will enjoy this tour into the world created by Louise Penny in her many Three Pines novels.
Itinerary subject to change.